StAC
100 Commemorative Issue
6 9
Editor/Writer: Jo Bailey Photography: Ken Baker Photography GLOW STUDIO Clinton Lloyd Rachelle Joilin Christine Leighton John Quealy Stephen Goodenough David Parry Design and layout: Plato Creative Printing: Caxton Published: August 2017 General correspondence should be addressed to: Head of Communications St Andrew’s College 347 Papanui Road Strowan Christchurch 8052 New Zealand Telephone: +64 3 940 2000 Facsimile: +64 3 940 2060 Email: comms@stac.school.nz Website: stac.school.nz
16
36
4 From the Rector
19 Heads of College dinner
5 From the Board; From the Old Collegians Association
20 Celebrating a century of achievement
6 100 years of celebrations
21 100 years of leadership
9 Centenary – behind the scenes
22 Honouring the brave
12 Centenary celebrations launched; A stirring musical tribute; The Saltire Flag; Historic timeline; Stepping into the past
24 Old Collegians’ London Reunion
16 Dedication a time of joy; A poetry tribute ; In loving memory; Eternal links; Fine tradition of generous giving
25 Gala Weekend attendees 26 Fun, friendship and frivolity 27 100th Founders’ Day Assembly launches Gala Weekend 29 Buried treasure 30 Past and present staff reunite
Find us online: Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Social Hub
Contents
32 Boarders’ breakfast bonding 33 Miles of smiles at Cocktail Party
40 Encore!
34
36
42 Moving Chapel service; Open Days 43 Crowd bowled over 44 Concert a stunning final act; Flowers a labour of love 46 Old Cols return for Centenary Athletics Day; High tea in the Chapel; Stunning Centenary sculpture; ‘Bring an Old Col Home’ winner 47 Timed to perfection 48 Bringing history to life
43
49 Centenary merchandise; As neat as a new pin 50 Capturing magic moments
40 49
51 Centenary film evokes special StAC spirit 52 Thank you to Centenary Partners and Sponsors
3 StAC100
36 Gala Dinner glitz and glamour; A warm welcome from the Rector and Board
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
34 All the fun of the Fête
From the
Rector
There is something truly special about the spirit and culture of St Andrew’s College, which has been highly evident during our much-anticipated Centenary celebrations. What a wonderful year it has been! The happy smiles, animated conversations, renewed friendships and the intermingling of our present students with Old Collegians have been among the highlights of the full, rich programme of events we have enjoyed throughout the year. There were many special moments at the Centenary Launch Assembly in September 2016, and at the Dedication of the beautiful new Centennial Chapel in October 2016, which stands as a symbol of the College’s strong Christian values and our commitment to the Presbyterian foundation of our school. It is a special place to reflect and remember, learn, live and grow as we recognise our common purpose and continue to feel the heartbeat of those who have gone before us.
Centenary Fête were hugely popular daytime events on the Saturday, prior to the spectacular Gala Dinner for more than 1500 people at Horncastle Arena. A chapel service, cricket match, and Old Collegians’ Concert provided the perfect end to a wonderful long weekend of celebrations. Other special Centenary initiatives, which captured the special essence of St Andrew’s, include the StAC100 Timeline, and the centennial book, and film, both named The Spirit of St Andrew’s. The sold-out run of the incredible senior production, Encore!, celebrating 100 years of musical theatre at StAC rounded off our wonderful Centenary year. There could be no question in the Old Collegians’ minds about the promise of the youth of today or the quality of opportunities available at StAC as we celebrated our milestone of 100 years of education. We are incredibly proud of the present students and staff
whose talents, energy and vibrancy were on display at a number of events throughout the year. The performances of our music and dance groups, the Pipe Band, and the astonishing StAC Showcase at the Gala Dinner are all to be celebrated. The past has been well remembered and honoured and we will continue to pay tribute to all who have laid the foundations for what we enjoy today. Most importantly we look upon the future with confidence and hope in the knowledge that our St Andrew’s values of Truth, Excellence and Faith, which have guided us through the last 100 years are as important now as they ever were.
Christine Leighton Rector
The Heads of College Dinner, 100th Prizegiving, Centennial WWII Remembrance Tour, and London Old Collegians’ Reunion were other events enjoyed by the College community, as we prepared for the wonderful Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations in March. There was a real sense of community, spirit, warmth and congeniality during the Gala Weekend, where everyone felt part of something truly special. Several families were third or fourth generation at St Andrew’s, and we welcomed many who had travelled from overseas to share the events. I congratulate the Development Team and other members of the planning committee who put together a wonderful Gala Weekend programme, starting on the Friday with the Founders’ Day Assembly and Highland Games, Staff Function and Cocktail Party. The Boarders’ Breakfast and
Top: (from left) Bryan Pearson (new Board Chair), Barry Maister (Rector 1995–2001) Rector Christine Leighton, Dr John Rentoul (Rector 1982–1994) Nigel Fairbairn (Rector 2002–2004 ) and Garry Moore (former Board Chair) at the 100th Founders’ Day Assembly. Bottom: Departed friends. Rector Christine Leighton with Board Chair Garry Moore, and Head of Secondary School Roland Burrows, who both retired just after the Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations.
From the Board The century milestone is something few people and institutions achieve. And even fewer can claim, on the occasion of their 100th birthday, to be the very best they have ever been.
While every aspect of the weekend was a highlight, it was the opportunity, at the Founders’ Day Assembly, to pay tribute to our retiring Board Chair Garry Moore that was my personal highlight. Garry served on the Board for over 12 years, almost 11 of these
as Chair. As a Governor and Board Chair he stands out in the College’s 100 year history, and his leadership, alongside and in support of our Rector, is in a large part why we can say that St Andrew’s College has never been better. The opportunity to succeed Garry as the 14th Board Chair of St Andrew’s College is a great honour. I’m mindful of the responsibility that comes with the role and comforted by the calibre of our Board of Governors who together share governance accountability. Between us we have the capability, experience and energy to guide the College into the early years of our second century.
And we are acutely aware past success is no guarantee of future performance, that we must guard against complacency and continuously strive to uphold the College values of Truth, Excellence and Faith. The years truly have gathered fame for St Andrew’s College and so too will the future with a shared commitment across our College community to common purpose, our values, and united endeavour. Bryan Pearson (1980) Board Chair
From the Old Collegians Association
President of the Old Collegians Association, Mark Mulholland (1973) (right) with Past President, Nick Letham (2001).
What an exciting year this has been for the College. The centennary celebrations have broken all records for reunion attendance and participation. The Centenary Gala Weekend was a seamless showcase of what St Andrew’s College has achieved and who we are. From the stunning Founders’ Day Assembly on Friday, to the Old Collegians’ Concert on Sunday,
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
The Centenary Weekend was a wonderful festival of celebration and fraternity where the College was showcased and experienced like never before. Starting with the Founders’ Day Assembly, anchored by the Gala Dinner and StAC Showcase, and concluding with the Old Collegians’ Concert in our stunning Centennial Chapel it was truly befitting of the occasion.
The Board of Governors (back row) Felicity Odlin, Malcolm Johns, Richard Holyoake, Rob Hall, Chris Janett (front row) Rob Woodgate, Rector Christine Leighton, retired Board Chair Garry Moore, new Board Chair Bryan Pearson, Sandra Wright-Taylor.
5 StAC100
This is what makes this year such a special time in the history of St Andrew’s College. A time when we not only celebrate but reflect on where we have come from, on all that has been encountered and endured over the years, on our achievements and on all those who have contributed to what we are so proud of today.
you couldn’t help but be spellbound. The magnificent park-like grounds, state-of-the-art buildings and our gracious Lady Strowan House were pristine and waiting. All that was needed was people. And they came in their thousands – Old Collegians, students, parents, grandparents, teachers, staff, Board and friends. The lifeblood of the College. All through the weekend the grounds were alive with the chatter of stories from the past and the rekindling of old friendships.
time on campus and I think we leave with the strongest friendships.
Personally, the weekend was all about friendship, fellowship, and fraternity. Many Old Collegians, having not seen each other for years and some not since they left school, all joined together to celebrate in surroundings vastly different to when we attended class. My favourite was the Boarders’ Breakfast function. We are a group within the College who spent the most
My thanks to all who worked so hard to achieve the wonderful celebrations that will be long remembered by all who attended.
Those who took tours of the College were amazed at the technology and facilities of our modern thriving campus. The fact that the rolls are full indicates the success of all who are involved in the moulding of young minds for their future. We have achieved so much in our 100 years and the ‘College family’ is the strength behind it all.
Mark Mulholland (1973) President Old Collegians Association
100 celebr years of
1917 Official opening of the College at Strowan
1938 21st birthday
1943
1966 50th Jubilee
St Andrew’s College Old Boys’ Reunion – Cairo
ations
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
1976
From its earliest beginnings in 1917 to the wonderful Centenary celebrations in 2017, St Andrew’s College has always celebrated special milestones in style.
60th Jubilee
StAC100
7
1992 2017 75th Jubilee
Centenary
It had to be done ‘‘ in a StAC way with a StAC f lavour.’’ CLARE WILKINSON DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Roger Mars (left) and Bruce Halliburton (both 1961) reunite at the Cocktail Party.
- behind the
scenes
While the delivery of the wonderful events across the entire Centenary year may have appeared effortless, behind the scenes an incredible amount of work went into ensuring this was the case. See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
Organising the celebrations Clare Wilkinson was appointed as the College’s Director of Development two-and-a-half years ago. “I’ve lived and breathed the Centenary ever since,” she says. Some preliminary organisation around the Centenary had taken place before Clare started, with more discussions held once she was on board to finalise a programme that would reflect this important point in the College’s history.
Director of Development, Clare Wilkinson (right) with Mark Mulholland (1973), President of the Old Collegians Association, lived and breathed the Centenary for two-and-a-half years.
“We worked closely with Rector Christine Leighton and other stakeholders throughout the entire planning process and were mindful of providing something for everyone to enjoy – from current families to Old Collegians who may not have been on campus for many years. It had to be done in a StAC way with a StAC flavour.”
One of the first challenges for the Development team was to fill in as many gaps in the College database as possible, to ensure no one in the St Andrew’s community would miss out. “Kate Baker did a lot of fantastic ground work with the alumni, reconnecting with people and updating their details. We set up a telephone ambassador programme which worked really well.” Running parallel to getting in touch with the StAC community was event planning. “We came up with a basic structure, framed around our traditional events such as Founders’ Day and Highland Games. Event management company, Conference Innovators came on board early on to support us with two of the main events, the Gala Dinner and Cocktail Party,” says Clare.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Centenary
The truly magical Centenary Gala Weekend, the jewel in the crown of a year’s worth of birthday celebrations, was enjoyed by all ages.
9 StAC100
Amy Silk (2007) enjoying a catch up with friends at the Cocktail Party.
The sun shone, Strowan sparkled, and students past and present came in droves to celebrate and share in the incredible spirit that has lived within St Andrew’s College over the last 100 years.
Getting the message out there
Current students fully involved Many current students were involved in Centenary Weekend celebrations, from those who readily volunteered for behind the scenes roles, to others who were centre stage and showcasing their considerable talents at various Centenary events. “We are so proud of all the students who were involved in the celebrations, who were great ambassadors for St Andrew’s College. We also pay tribute to the teachers who put in hundreds of voluntary hours to prepare and support the students” says Clare.
Anna Benetto (Year 13) and Elliot Wood (Year 11) performing in the StAC Showcase at the Gala Dinner.
Half page Centenary advertisement in Kia Ora magazine.
To bring the Centenary to life, the Communications team, headed by former St Andrew’s Head of Communications Francesca Eathorne liaised closely with the planning committee and Rector to build a standalone Centenary brand. The team which also included Head Designer Craig Morgan, Production Manager Anj Hawkins, Production Assistant Rachelle Joilin, and Marketing Co-ordinator Georgia Harvey worked hard to deliver the brand across a wide range of media throughout Centenary year. A wee dram of Centenary whisky.
Centenary initiatives In addition to the main weekend events, the organising committee developed a number of ways to involve the StAC community and provide them with lifelong mementos of the Centenary events. These included the ‘Bring an Old Col Home’ competition, which engaged alumni from all over the world with the StAC100 website, and attracted generous sponsorship from Emirates and House of Travel Merivale. A wide range of Centenary merchandise was produced for the celebrations and continues to be sold through the StAC100.co.nz website.
The StAC100 campaign came to life via a standalone website, YouTube channel and Social Hub initiatives, which engaged the St Andrew’s alumni and had them sharing stories and photographs of their school days well before the events took place. Articles and advertisements were placed in various media, with ‘100 Years of’ features a popular addition to Regulus. A Centenary logo design was also created in a collaborative process between all stakeholders and was widely used throughout the media campaign, featuring on merchandise, promotional material, and signage installed around the College campus.
27
%
of Old Collegians attending Centenary Gala Weekend had a multiple generation connection to St Andrew’s.
Huge logistical exercise Organising the Centenary Gala Weekend, with eight separate events over a three-day period was a huge logistical exercise, with numerous challenges throughout the process, says Clare. “Initially we hoped we were doing enough to attract people to come, which soon flipped to are we going to be able to cater for and efficiently host the sheer number of people who have registered?” Managing facilities, co-ordinating people, and trying not to be too disruptive to staff and students during the course of a normal school day, were other challenges. “There were also massive demands on staff and some students, particularly those who were rehearsing for and performing in multiple groups.”
The hardworking Development team, who alongside Director of Development, Clare Wilkinson were key members of the planning committee behind the organisation of the Centenary celebrations. (from left) Kate Baker, Kelsey Williams and Jacqui Anderson.
Support of a great team Clare says now the Centenary celebrations are over she is thrilled with the outcome. “We couldn’t be happier and the feedback we’ve had from the St Andrew’s community has been amazing. One of the keys to the success has definitely been my team, who have supported me and given 100 percent over a long period of time. Nothing was ever a problem, and everybody pulled together to achieve a great result.”
The generous financial contributions of Centenary ‘‘ Partners Caxton and Konica Minolta allowed us to deliver a grand schedule of events.’’ CLARE WILKINSON
Generous Centenary Partners and sponsors
St Andrew’s was fortunate to have the support of two major Centenary Partners, Caxton, and Konica Minolta. These partnerships were instrumental in making possible the scale and grandeur of Centenary events. “The generous financial contributions of Caxton and Konica Minolta allowed
us to deliver a fantastic schedule of events. We are also grateful to the many other sponsors who supported individual events, and publications that were produced for the Centenary,” says Clare.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Another group who deserves a special mention are the many people who volunteered to create and support the various events during the Centenary Gala Weekend and throughout the year, particularly the committees behind the Boarders’ Breakfast, Centenary Fête, and Old Collegians’ Concert. “These committees were assisted by many more volunteers both leading up to and during the Centenary Gala Weekend. We are grateful for the time and energy every one of these people put into making the celebrations such a success,” says Clare.
11 StAC100
Volunteers made the difference
Memories of the past were honoured and there was much anticipation about the year ahead, when the St Andrew’s College Centenary celebrations were officially launched at a special assembly in September 2016. Highlights of this first event on the Centenary year calendar included performances by the Pipe Band, and choral groups Staccoro and Stacchorus. The St Andrew’s College orchestra also delivered a wonderful performance of the Centenary Overture, a soaring musical piece composed especially for Centenary year by Old Collegian, Chris Adams (1996). Guests were taken back to the past during the first showing of a Vintage Newsreel featuring clips from the early years of the College. The assembly finished with a trailer of the Centenary film, The Spirit of St Andrew’s, providing a glimpse of the project that was later premiered at Centenary Gala Weekend. After the assembly, guests and students were invited to view the StAC100 Timeline, which provided a unique visual representation of the College’s history.
Centenary celebrations
launched
Old Collegian Chris Adams (1996), who is current Head of Music at King’s College, in Auckland, spent about six months composing the piece, after being asked by Rector Christine Leighton and Mark Hodgkinson, conductor of the orchestra, to develop a work in recognition of the milestone. The piece featured elements of the St Andrew’s College Song throughout, and concluded with a full orchestral version of all three verses, sung heartily by those in attendance. During the composition process, Chris travelled to St Andrews in Scotland to gain a sense of place to help him with the work.
’’
CHRIS ADAMS (1996) 1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
The seven-minute Centenary Overture written especially for the celebrations was a challenging piece of music that was beautifully mastered by the College orchestra at the Centenary Launch Assembly.
write something to celebrate this special period in the College’s history.
Composer Chris Adams with Rector Christine Leighton.
“The St Andrew’s College Song has such emotional significance for those associated with the College, that I wanted to ensure the integrity of the song, but also brought something new to it. Because the words are so evocative, I drew on the imagery and worked to create this in my orchestral writing. It was an honour to be asked to write something to celebrate this special period in the College’s history,” said Chris.
In full flight. The St Andrew’s College Orchestra during their stirring performance of Centenary Overture.
13 StAC100
A stirring musical tribute
an honour ‘‘Ittowas be asked to
The Saltire Flag One of our talented, award-winning young poets, Pieta Bayley (then Year 6) composed a special commemorative poem for the Centenary Launch. A breath of time ripples through the cloth. Together an instrument, ready to play.
Historic Timeline
United like the bag, chanter and drone pipes who skirl ‘Badge of St Andrews’, together they strike hearts with the million songs held in a soft flutter. Strowan stands behind, guardian of the school. A Rector in her ivy gown. An ensign to greet the College with a solitary wave of white cross interlaced with navy legacy. Its 98 year old silk woven with memories remains still. A Scottish endowment. Frozen in a photograph. Preserved in archival tissue. It remembers.
St Andrew’s sons in Scotland send To you St Andrew’s sons afar This symbol of a common faith. This ensign of a common war. Still flies the cross.
Celebrating the past. Scenes from the 1933 St Andrew’s College Fête featured in the Vintage Newsreel.
The meaningful, multi-layered exhibition was installed in the Senior College atrium in time for the
Stepping
past into the
It was fantastic ‘‘ to have all this well
Information and imagery has been cleverly presented on carefully placed, colour-coded canvases that hug the curved wall running the length of the mezzanine height walkway. It is the result of meticulous research by Pip Dinsenbacher, Preparatory School Art teacher, who condensed screeds of information into a suitable format, interspersed with quotes from various notable people throughout the decades.
Guests at the Centenary Launch and Founders’ Day Assemblies were transported back in time by a Vintage Newsreel, which captured some magic moments from St Andrew’s past. Simon Williams who leads the TV and Media Studios managed the project, and was supported by a small group of students. “We looked through a three-hour long VHS tape of film made in 1988 that combined a lot of historic clips, some of which were taken by a film club at St Andrew’s as far back as 1932. It was fantastic to have all this well shot material to work with.”
shot material to work with.
The film version of the tape was digitised and reviewed by Simon, and Sophie Bonis (then Year 9), with all useful content logged.
SIMON WILLIAMS TV AND MEDIA STUDIOS
Simon wrote a script, with its wry humour perfectly captured in the voice-over by Nick Cain (then Year 12),
’’
She worked in close collaboration with Communications designer, Craig Morgan on the project, who was responsible for its design and positional mapping for the challenging space. Their hard work was brought to life by Adgraphix, which did a great job of printing and installing the canvases.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Centenary Launch Assembly and has been enjoyed by students, staff and many guests to the College ever since.
15 StAC100
The StAC100 Timeline provides a fascinating visual representation of the history of St Andrew’s College interspersed with major national and international milestones and events that have shaped the course of the last 100 years.
who in just one take, managed to evoke a clipped British accent in similar style to the short newsreels that played in cinemas until the 1960s. The selected footage and voice-over were sent to Rick Harvie of Belmont Productions who put together the final version. As well as being enjoyed at the two assemblies, the Vintage Newsreel has had many online views.
Simon Williams of the College’s TV and Media Studios led the production of the Vintage Newsreel and guided students as they captured all the exciting events of Centenary year.
Watch the Vintage Newsreel at stac100.co.nz
Dedication
a time
of joy
A poetry tribute
Our Chapel… They blessed the site They opened the ground We saw the heart of St Andrew’s College We saw the foundations of Faith
This moving poem was written by Kerrin Davidson, Writer-in-residence at St Andrew’s College for the Dedication of the Centennial Chapel.
All winter we heard the voices of the brave ones encourage the cranes, the forklifts, the diggers All summer we watched blocks, bricks and steel become holy In spring the building rose with our memories, our traditions, our history to join our future to become St Andrew’s College Centennial Chapel
Dedication ‘‘The was truly a
magnificent occasion and it was very humbling to celebrate having our Chapel back at the heart of our community once again.
The much-anticipated Dedication of the Centennial Chapel on 25 October 2016 was a wonderful occasion that formally placed this special, sacred space back at the heart of the College. Up to 750 guests and dignitaries gathered inside the magnificent Chapel to enjoy the proceedings, with the College’s students lining the banks of Strowan Stream in similar tradition to the opening of the Memorial Chapel in 1955. Blessings, prayers, readings, poems and performances were among the highlights of the Dedication. Right Reverend Andrew Norton led the very first service in the Chapel around
Around 750 guests enjoyed the Dedication of the Centennial Chapel.
the theme of ‘wonder’, a feeling shared by everyone in attendance. Many Old Collegians commented on how special it was to see heritage items from the Memorial Chapel carefully salvaged for use in the new Chapel, including oak doors, stonework, gargoyles, stained glass windows, plaques, around 1000 of the original bricks, and the original bell. Other special items such as ceremonial chairs, the Book of Remembrance, communion table and baptismal font have also been sympathetically incorporated inside the new building. Since the Dedication, the new Chapel has been well utilised by the College, the wider community, and The Village Presbyterian Church, which holds services there on Sundays.
Our Waka… Te Toka Tu Moana Ara Toa Rongonui Your strength is like a rock Standing in raging waters Against the bitterness of war purified by the winds of Tāwhirimātea a place of worship and gathering like the hull of a great canoe our taonga You’ll always navigate the wildest seas and bring us safely home
It was a centrepiece of the Centenary celebrations, hosting the Chapel Service and Old Collegians’ Concert during Gala Weekend, and various other small functions and events during the year. Architect Patrick Clifford of Architectus designed this unique example of church architecture and said it was a privilege to be part of the four-year journey to bring the Chapel to life. The Dedication of the Centennial Chapel marked a momentous milestone in St Andrew’s history, and also in the post-earthquake renewal of Christchurch.
See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
17 StAC100
CHRISTINE LEIGHTON RECTOR
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
’’
Rector Christine Leighton with the late Ivor Francis.
In loving memory The StAC community was saddened to learn of the passing of Ivor Francis (1955) a former Head Prefect of the College. He is pictured with Rector Christine Leighton at the Dedication of the Centennial Chapel beside the beautiful window originally donated by his family to the Memorial Chapel.
Eternal links Fine
tradition of generous giving
Back in the early 1950s students at St Andrew’s gave up their lunch money to buy bricks to help fundraise for the construction of the Memorial Chapel. This fine tradition of giving within the StAC community has been continued with the Buy a Brick campaign. One thousand original bricks salvaged from the Memorial Chapel were incorporated into the new Centennial Chapel and made
available for purchase at $3000 per brick, with proceeds going to the Chapel fund. There are still bricks available for purchase, and all donors at this level or higher will have their name or family’s name added to one of the plaques in the Chapel foyer. For more information about purchasing a brick contact Clare Wilkinson phone 03 940 2068 or email CWI@stac.school.nz
A magical antependium, designed and developed for the new Centennial Chapel by Professor Malcolm Lochhead of Glasgow, celebrates the links, shared values and traditions of St Andrew’s College and St Andrews in Scotland. The intricate work has incredible depth of meaning, with aspects representing the southern and northern hemispheres, God’s love, birth, eternity, and a ‘Circle of Friends’ containing eight images with special meaning to the College.
Collegians across the decades. The night was thoroughly enjoyed by all and reaffirmed what a wonderful school family and connectivity StAC represents.
’’
GEOFF SPARK (1989) HEAD BOY
More than 60 former Head and Deputy Head Prefects gathered from all over New Zealand and even Australia, for the event, with the oldest attendees being Jeff Steel, Peter Voss and Ernie Poole (Head Prefects 1947, 1949 and 1950 respectively). There were two father and sons represented, Neil Thomson (1957) and David Thomson (1987); and Richard Hawke (1980) and Angus Hawke (2011).
Head Girl 2016, Isla Evison welcomed the guests, with a Toast to the Heads of College made by Harrison Cooper, Deputy Head Boy 2016. There was also the traditional Address to the Haggis by Jim Hudson (Deputy Head Boy 1953), and an address by Nick Letham (Head Boy 2001). The guests enjoyed a three-course meal in the Strowan House dining room, where many connections were made across the generations, and stories shared.
Heads
of College
dinner
19 StAC100
It was great to ‘‘meet with Old
Two brothers William Robertson (2010) and Sam Robertson (2015) were also in attendance, alongside a great representation of other College leaders.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
The inaugural Heads of College dinner in 2016 was a wonderful celebration of 100 years of leadership at St Andrew’s College.
Heads ‘‘ofTheCollege
dinner provided a wonderful opportunity to recognise each and every student who has contributed to the rich tapestry of life at St Andrew’s.
’’
CHRISTINE LEIGHTON RECTOR
Top: Heads of College from across the decades gathered to enjoy this special event. Bottom: Rector Christine Leighton with Heads of College from 2007 onwards.
See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
Celebrating
aofcentury achievement
The past, present and future at St Andrew’s College were key themes at the 100th Prizegiving held on Sunday 27 November 2016 at Horncastle Arena.
Along with celebrating the many achievements of our current students, Rector Christine Leighton, and retiring Board Chair Garry Moore, reflected on the past and how the founding values of Truth, Excellence and Faith remain just as important to the College today. The 175 Year 13 and eight Year 12 leavers were acknowledged at the
The outstanding contribution made by retiring Board Chair Garry Moore to St Andrew’s College was celebrated at the 100th Prizegiving.
event, and a special presentation was made to Garry Moore for his dedicated 11-year service as Board Chair. There were an impressive range of musical and dance performances during the evening from the Preparatory School Kapa Haka Group, Pipe Band, Highland dancers, choirs, orchestra, Jazz Big Band and Ballet Academy.
The Very Reverend Robert Erwin was the first Board Chair, who served for 14 years alongside Rectors Sydney Dickinson and Alexander Anderson. His tenure spanned the Great Depression, when the roll plummeted, as sons were withdrawn in difficult economic times. Staff salaries were cut, domestic staff laid off and the fields were planted in potatoes to enhance cash flow. Robert Erwin was followed by The Very Reverend Lawson Robinson, who chaired the Board for 16 years alongside two Rectors, Alexander Anderson and Joseph Mawson. The next Board Chair was The Very Reverend Stuart Francis who joined the Board in 1947, the same year as the new Rector Les Stewart. Their strong partnership unified the College and helped the community to heal following the Second World War. The 1950s were a period of great prosperity in New Zealand, which saw the construction of the Memorial Chapel to honour the fallen Old Boys and staff who had made the ultimate sacrifice. In the early 1960s, Ian Galloway became Rector, and men of commerce began to Chair the Board. The first of these was Frank Lawrence, a retired businessman, who died in office after only two years and was succeeded by Walter MacGibbon, the assistant Managing Director of Pyne Gould Guinness. Galloway and MacGibbon had a solid partnership during a period of great advancement in facilities, including the first Gymnasium, the original
MacGibbon died suddenly in 1973, and was succeeded by Athol Mann, a chartered accountant and the first Old Collegian to Chair the Board. Another Old Boy, Neil Thomson, a lawyer and former Head Boy and Dux of the College became the seventh Board Chair in 1979. He left a few years into the tenure of Rector Dr John Rentoul, a visionary educator, whose proposal for coeducation became a divisive issue in the St Andrew’s community. Four Board Chairs – Thomson, Alan Shand (an industrial chemist), Grant Murdoch (a chartered accountant) and Lindsay Fraser (a veterinarian) served alongside John Rentoul, in what was a turbulent yet pivotal period in the College’s history that ultimately led to the development of a thriving co-educational environment. The next Rectors, Barry Maister and Nigel Fairbairn, were partnered with Board Chairs Brian Gargiulo, a businessman/market gardener, who oversaw construction of the RDH Steel Technology Centre; and Hugh Mathews, a solicitor and former Pipe Band Drum Major who led many important facilities upgrades. A period of instability saw Rector Harvey Rees-Thomas replacing Nigel Fairbairn, and Garry Moore stepping into the role of Board Chair the day after Fairbairn resigned. He served alongside 36 Governors and five Deputy Chairs during his 11-year tenure and enjoyed positive working relationships with both Harvey Rees-Thomas and Rector Christine Leighton, who took up the role in 2007. Moore’s exceptional financial acumen has led the College out of debt, and enabled St Andrew’s to make an $80 million investment in the campus during his tenure, including construction of the new boarding houses, Gym 2, and the Centennial Chapel. High profile businessman Bryan Pearson became the fourteenth Board Chair after Centenary Gala Weekend. With the right mix of exceptional governance skills, an energetic Board, strong financial position, strength and stability, the College can look forward to its next 100 years with confidence.
St Andrew’s College Rectors 1917–2017 A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Aspects of this story are adapted from former Board Chair Garry Moore’s speech at the 100th Prizegiving ceremony which explored the relationship between some of the 13 Board Chairs and 10 Rectors who have served at St Andrew’s College and the challenging times they have faced during its history.
Mountain Lodge, and deconstruction of the Burnett Block, to make way for the Preparatory School.
21 StAC100
100 years of leadership
A: Rector Sydney Dickinson 1917–1919 B: Rector Alexander Anderson 1920–1934 C: Rector Joseph Mawson 1934–1947 D: Rector Les Stewart 1947–1962 E: Rector Ian Galloway 1962–1982 F: Rector John Rentoul 1982–1994 G: Rector Barry Maister 1995–2001 H: Rector Nigel Fairbairn 2002–2004 I: Rector Harvey Rees-Thomas 2005–2007 J: Rector Christine Leighton 2007–current
Honouring
the
brave My highlight was the memorial service we held in ‘‘ Hyde Park, London where I was able to reflect on the war story of my soldier, Phillip Selwyn East. Overall, the trip is one of many highlights of my time at St Andrews College, and I will always treasure the experience. LIAM RASSIE (YEAR 13)
’’
The 61 Old Collegians and former staff who paid the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom and democracy during the Second World War were remembered as part of a special Centennial WWII Remembrance Tour, in January 2017. Teacher Ian Morrison organised the tour, which saw Rector Christine Leighton, a group of staff, two Old Collegians, and 26 students travel to Europe to pay their respects near the places where the fallen had died or were buried.
Those on the tour researched each of the 61 men, and were touched by their stories. The group visited Dubai, London, Normandy, Paris, Sicily, Monte Cassino and Rome, with moving services conducted by Old Collegians and staff, Nick Letham and Cameron Pickering. These included reflections on the young men’s sacrifice, reading of the College Roll of Honour, poems, laying of wreaths, singing the National Anthem and College Song, with laments played by Pipe Major Louis Newman (Year 12). Old Collegian Harrison Cooper (Deputy Head Boy 2016) recorded the tour on film, which was later turned into an 11-minute documentary with the
assistance of teacher and Old Collegian Cameron Pickering, Simon Williams of the TV and Film Studios, and Rick Harvie and Mike Kelland of Belmont Productions. Christine Leighton says there is no doubt the students involved were changed by their experience, and hold a deeper understanding of sacrifice and St Andrew’s motto, ‘Fides et Patria’. “We must continue to grow young people who value free thought and global peace so that this kind of tragedy never happens again.” Watch on YouTube Remembering the sons of St Andrew’s
StAC100
23
(top) An album of wartime images featuring Old Collegians; (bottom) Highlights of the Centennial WWII Remembrance Tour included visits to the Catania Commonwealth Cemetery in Sicily, Normandy beaches and the New Zealand War Memorial in Hyde Park, London.
Old Collegians’ London Reunion In January a special Centenary function was held at New Zealand House in London where a group of Old Collegians met with the Rector and the rest of the group on the Centennial WWII Commemorative Tour for an evening of celebration and reminiscing. Special guest of honour was Professor Michael Spiro, Dux of St Andrew’s College in 1947. Prime Minister Bill English happened to be at another function at New Zealand House the same evening, and was kind enough to speak with guests and spend time with our current students.
‘‘I had a lovely time at the London
Old Cols reunion. It was great to see some familiar faces from previous London reunions and catch up with what everyone has been doing. A highlight was being invited to a function hosted by the New Zealand High Commissioner, Sir Lockwood Smith. I enjoyed talking to some of the current students who were excited about their trip to Europe and were great ambassadors for St Andrew’s College. It was fab to have some New Zealand chocolate fish too!’’
Top: Professor Michael Spiro (1947), with Prime Minister Bill English, Harrison Cooper (2016), Louie Newman (Year 12) and Thomas Moore (2009). Bottom: Charlotte Wright-Taylor (2016), Christine Leighton, Aniella Killick (2011), Bridget Gourlay (2005) and Bridie Connell (2007).
ELIZABETH DUMERGUE (1992) ‘FIRST GIRL’ IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOL
Tom Stanley (2007) with Rector Christine Leighton and Andrew Maze (1981).
54 13
International attendees
AUSTRALIA
Our Old Collegian community extends across the globe, and distance was no barrier for the more than 100 Old Collegians who later travelled from 18 countries to attend the Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations.
&
8
United States
5
Singapore
4
Canada
2
Fiji, Germany, Hong Kong, Sweden, and Thailand
1
Cayman Islands, China, France, India, Japan, Nauru, Samoa, and Switzerland
UNITED KINGDOM
attendees The strong ties Old Collegians have with St Andrew’s College was highly evident during Centenary Gala Weekend, with an incredible 3000 individual attendances at the various events. These numbers far exceeded expectations and demonstrated the deep bonds shared by members of the StAC family.
INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING EVENTS ACROSS THE WEEKEND
GALA DINNER
OLD COLLEGIANS’ COCKTAIL EVENING
25
358
Boarders’ Breakfast
230
Castle Hill – Alistair Sidey Mountain Lodge Open Day
692
Chapel Service
801
Founders Day’ Assembly
638
Highland Games
700
Old Collegians’ Musical Concert
75
Rowing Open Day
618
School Tours
326
Staff Function
75
Trapshooting Open Day
Attendees by decade 2
39
198
289
196
239
172
237
169
1930s 1940s 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s
StAC100
3252 1539 1270
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Gala Weekend
Fun, friendship
and frivolity
Year 9 students Isla Stewart and Emma Inglis are having a ball in the three-legged race at the Centenary FĂŞte.
Old Collegians and former staff gathered excitedly with current students and staff at St Andrew’s College to enjoy a packed, engaging and entertaining programme of events over Centenary Gala Weekend from Friday 17 to Sunday 19 March 2017. The renowned StAC spirit was highly evident during these special 100th birthday celebrations, with lots of smiles, laughter and warmth across the generations.
The Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations kicked off in style with the 100th Founders’ Day Assembly and Highland Games. After the traditional flag raising ceremony and a stirring whole school haka, guests including Old Collegians and former Rectors of the College were seated in Gym 1 where they heard from a number of speakers. They also enjoyed outstanding student performances from the Pipe Band, St Andrew’s College orchestra, Staccoro, and soloist Iona Taylor (Year 11). Other highlights included an entertaining Address to the Haggis by Jim Hudson (1953), and the cutting of the 100th birthday cake by Naylor Hillary (1933) and his great-grandson, Henry Bissland (Year 2). Following the assembly, the Centenary Time Capsule plaque was unveiled. Then it was time for another raucous Highland Games featuring wheatsheaf tossing, medicine ball throwing, rousing chants and songs. A wonderful display by the Pipe Band and Highland dancers was the perfect end to a wonderful afternoon’s festivities. See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
27 StAC100
100th Founders’ Day Assembly launches Gala Weekend
Special guest cuts Centenary birthday cake It is remarkable to think that at 101 years of age, Naylor Hillary (1933) was older than St Andrew’s College itself, when he cut the special Centenary birthday cake with his great-grandson Henry Bissland (Year 2). Naylor said he was ‘privileged and proud’ to do the honours. “I was very surprised to be asked and enjoyed the day very much.” He jokingly commented that he didn’t get to meet any of his school friends during the celebrations. Henry Bissland said the whole experience was ‘awesome’.
Christine Leighton watches Naylor Hillary (1933) and his great grandson Henry Bissland (Year 2) cut the Centenary cake.
Rector Christine Leighton delivering her address.
Rector’s message of unity and harmony Rector Christine Leighton opened her address at the 100th Founders’ Day Assembly with the Māori whakataukī; “Do not lift the paddle out of unison, or our canoe will never reach the shore.” She said it was a ‘very appropriate sentiment for the celebration of 100 years’, as it is with unity and harmony that St Andrew’s will enjoy success. “We are gathering on this 100th birthday of St Andrew’s as a school to celebrate a vision and dream that over 10 decades has become a reality for over 13,000 students. What began in the Presbyterian Church Manse in Hagley Park, a school for 19 boys in March 1917, has grown into a vibrant co-educational school community of 1450 students.
Reverend Alexander Thompson, the Founder of St Andrew’s College.
“At the very heart of our College lie the founding values, planted by the Founder of our school, Reverend A T Thompson, a visionary, kind, determined and persuasive man. Alexander Thompson had a dream for a College and
I have no doubt that he would have been proud of the community St Andrew’s College is today. We have recognised the vision of Alexander Thompson in his poem written in 1952, now etched into the Poet’s Walk down our newly landscaped driveway and guarded by the brand new Centennial Gates, a symbol of 100 years of our proud history.” Christine welcomed and thanked the four former Rectors in attendance, Dr John Rentoul (Rector 1982–1994), Barry Maister (Rector 1995–2001), Tim Oughton (Acting Rector 2001), and Nigel Fairbairn (Rector 2002–2004), along with the many guests who had served as members of the Board of Governors, the Old Collegians Executive, the PTA, the Ladies Circle, and the College Foundation. She also extended special gratitude to the College’s Development and Communications teams for all their hard work behind the scenes to bring the Centenary celebrations to life. “The essential guiding spirit expressed by our founders burns as brightly now as it did when a small assembly of far-sighted Presbyterian ministers and lay people recognised the need for a new boys’ school in Christchurch back in 1916. Throughout good times and bad, the triumphs, the setbacks, the hard-fought campaigns and challenges, St Andrew’s has never once relinquished its sense of identity or heritage,” said Christine. “We have a duty to ensure that we too leave a legacy; one that will ensure St Andrew’s College will still be a thriving community in 100 years from now, still wearing the badge of Truth, Excellence and Faith, ‘Fides et Patria’ proudly pinned on our heart.
Buried Inside the time capsule is a range of College items selected by the students after they interviewed several people in the St Andrew’s community, including the Rector, members of the Ladies Circle and some Old Collegians. In her letter to the Rector of the St Andrew’s College community of 2117, Christine Leighton said she would like to think the people reading it would look back with pride on the St Andrew’s of 2017, just as she is proud of those who founded the College. “St Andrew’s students today have enjoyed the legacy of those who have
gone before us... beautiful grounds and trees, buildings like Strowan that have such a story to tell, a belief in education for all, Christian values based upon a balance of respect and responsibility. In 2017, I hope that positive relationships and trust amongst all our community has built upon this legacy. I dream that the Centennial Chapel, built in 2016 still stands beside Strowan stream and is valued and admired in 100 years’ time. I trust it is still a peaceful place. “My hope for all the St Andrew’s community in 2117 is that you are happy, healthy, connected and energised by your learning... whatever that may be. I hope that the stories of the past continue to inspire you and that you too are thinking about the legacy you are leaving for the next 100 years.”
“It was an enjoyable experience and I now have a greater understanding of StAC and its past. Hopefully when they open the Centenary Time Capsule in 100 years they will witness and understand what it was like here today.”
JAKARTA KLEBERT (YEAR 8) “To be a part of St Andrew’s history – its legacy – is a huge honour. Good luck to the Centenary Time Capsule; may it preserve the history of this precious school for many years to come.”
HARRY WITHERS (YEAR 8) “Participating in the Centenary Time Capsule was an amazing experience. I am grateful to be part of StAC’s history and to learn about both its past and present culture.”
JAMIE GOODGAME (YEAR 8)
What’s inside? • • • • • • • • • • •
Letters from Rector Christine Leighton, staff and students A selection of badges (House, Centenary and Pipe Band) A Leavers’ ring Centenary Overture sheet music A collection of St Andrew’s ties (Prefects, Rugby First XV, Old Collegians) Photographs and information from the 2011 earthquake A whole-school photograph taken in 2016 Drone shots of the College grounds A copy of The Spirit of St Andrew’s Centenary book Regulus (November 2016 edition) Centennial Chapel Dedication programme and bookmark
Year 8 students Jakarta Klebert, Grace Sullivan and Reeve Williams inspect the contents of the Centenary Time Capsule.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
In 2117, the St Andrew’s community will be given a fascinating glimpse into campus life in 2017, when they open the Centenary Time Capsule, created by a group of Year 8 students.
29 StAC100
treasure
With Head of Secondary School, Roland Burrows retiring after 40 years service just a couple of weeks after the Centenary Gala Weekend, he was the perfect person to deliver the toast to past and present staff at the Staff Function, given he had a foot in both camps. Roland said it was both a responsibility and an honour to reflect on the past and heritage of St Andrew’s, and to acknowledge and thank all staff for their important work over the last 100 years. “I am especially aware that in the minds of many here are the special memories of those staff who are no longer with us, names too many to mention. We honour them and their service to the College by the work that we continue to do.”
Roland Burrows delivering the toast.
Past and present
staff
reunite
Roland said teaching is not what it used to be, but good teachers remain so. “Times may have changed – new curriculums, pedagogies and assessments, buildings and of course technologies, yet the qualities so apparent in most if perhaps not all former staff – dedication, hard work, caring, generosity and kindness continue to be important to this day. This toast honours both former and present staff, acknowledges the contribution each has made to the lives of thousands of students, and thanks them for their stewardship of all that continues to make this such a wonderful College.” See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
The Staff Function: I’d forgotten how much we all shared. So many memories: the laughs, the ideas, the special assemblies, the triumphs, the challenges, the odd spat (Roland’s geography trip versus Rozena’s rehearsal), and certain gruelling duties (you try being on the stopwatch at the swimming sports to clock the fourth place-getter accurately). All lovely stuff. The dinner was a real family affair, catching up with dear past students and colleagues, and enjoying sparkling entertainment and speeches. A swelligant elegant party! And the Music Concert in the new Chapel was just heart-melting enchantment. I couldn’t have asked for more.
ROZENA HALLUM HEAD OF DRAMA FROM 1983–2004
Rozena Hallum with Barry Maister (Rector 1995–2001) at the Staff Function.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Big bouquets to the StAC team for the genuine welcome, generous hosting, and staging the scene for so many affectionate encounters.
31 StAC100
An explosion of pleasure! A weekend to treasure!
Boarders’ breakfast bonding There was no lumpy porridge or soggy Weetbix in sight, when over 350 former boarders and 20 former or current boarding staff gathered for the Boarders’ Breakfast on the Saturday morning of Centenary Gala Weekend. The venue was Gym 1, which had undergone a rapid transformation in the early hours of the morning, following the previous evening’s Cocktail Party. “A particular acknowledgement should be made to Russell Gray and his team for the original and high calibre fare they produced for the event. The lack of any leftovers was evidence of how well it was received,” says Nick Letham (2001), who served on the organising committee that worked hard to deliver this successful and enjoyable event.
There was plenty of laughter as bonds were renewed, and guests reminisced about their time as boarders at the College. They also enjoyed the formal part of the morning, which included tales of boarding life from across the years. Fred Bull (1958) had the room in stitches with several stories from the Mawson–Stewart era. In his address Old Collegians Association President Mark Mulholland said the boarders were a ‘fraternity within a fraternity’. “After 25 years of co-education we stand proud together. It would have been a lot easier in my time here if we had been co-ed as it would have saved all those dark excursions to Rangi Ruru Girls’ School and St Margaret’s College.”
Great company, top notch food and plenty of laughs were shared at the Boarders’ Breakfast.
Guests enjoyed the balmy evening, with the new streetscape area buzzing with conversation and laughter.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
at Cocktail Party
Around 1300 Old Collegians across an incredible 10 decades, gathered for the Cocktail Party on the Friday evening of Centenary Gala Weekend, when friendships were renewed and lots of memories shared.
33 StAC100
Miles of
‘‘I would like to thank Russell and his
team for the magnificent breakfast. The boarding menu these days reads more like a restaurant’s than an institution’s. The days of a cold Stevenson’s pie and half a Boston bun for tea after cricket are long gone.’’
MARK MULHOLLAND (1973) OLD COLLEGIANS ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
‘‘The great camaraderie among
boarders is usually evidenced by the high turnout at reunions like the Boarders’ Breakfast, where it was great to see boarders young and old mixing and sharing stories. The food was excellent and a lot better than the lumpy porridge and Weetbix we used to have.’’
ANDY MUNRO (1974)
fun of the All the
Fête
A large, enthusiastic crowd enjoyed several entertaining hours at the Centenary Fête, where the traditions of similar events in the College’s history were revived. Development Co-ordinator Kelsey Williams led the volunteer parent committee that was formed around 18 months ago to pull together the event, and says as well as brainstorming with the committee, she and Museum Curator Alexandra Callaghan, looked at old photos of previous fêtes at St Andrew’s to gather ideas. “It was important for us to replicate some fun events from the past like the ‘Dunk a Teacher’ stall or ‘Drown the Drongo’ as it was known back in 1989.” In addition to the wonderful array of craft stalls, food trucks, rides, and fun activities such as a bouncy castle, Noddy train, pony rides, and old fashioned races; there was a full entertainment programme, featuring the College’s Soul Band, Jazz Combo, Highland dancers, Kapa Haka Group,
Ballet Academy, and rock band – The Lam Brothers. “The students did a brilliant job. We thank them, and their teachers and support people for the incredible amount of rehearsing and other work they did behind the scenes.” Another highlight was a Massed Pipe Band performance with current Pipe Band members joined by several Old Collegians. “Richard Hawke came up with the idea for the Massed Pipe Band and did a fantastic job of pulling it all together. A big crowd gathered on the bleachers and grass to enjoy the wonderful performance. Richard and Graeme Bryce also put in a huge amount of work during Centenary Year with our award winning Pipe Band, which played a key role in many special events.”
Richard Hawke, Pipe Band Director.
The St Andrew’s College Pipe Band had a special role at many events throughout Centenary year including the Fête.
35
Volunteers made it happen Kelsey says the energy and dedication of the volunteer parent committee, made up largely of Preparatory School parents, was the key factor in the
success of the Centenary Fête. “Each committee member took responsibility for different aspects of the event and a large group of additional volunteers also helped on the day. We thank everyone who contributed to making the Centenary Fête so memorable. See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
From its dramatic opening with a lone piper silhouetted behind a sheer drape, the Gala Dinner promised to be a spectacular evening, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. With incredible entertainment, delicious food and refreshments, live music and dancing, it was truly a night to remember. There were many happy faces as friends were reunited, and stories were shared. Director of Development Clare Wilkinson says the organisation behind the Gala Dinner was a collaborative effort, with the planning team putting together the exciting programme for the event, which was delivered with the help of Conference Innovators, Vbase, and other companies such as White Audio and Light Site, one of the event sponsors. “It was Paul Herman from Light Site who came up with the idea of shining the light through the drape to reveal the silhouette of the piper and Highland dancers, before dropping the drape to reveal the entire Pipe Band. It created a wow factor that was a perfect way to start the night.” Clever use of lighting also helped to create an intimate, cosy atmosphere at Horncastle Arena, which was chosen early on as the venue for the dinner given its large capacity, says Clare. “We were blown away with the response to the event and believe it was the largest occasion of its type in Christchurch since 2009. Catering for over 1500 people was a big task, but Horncastle did a fantastic job of serving everybody, and we had lots of great comments about the quality of the food.” The Scottish themed tables also helped to set the scene for a wonderful evening. “A lot of different people spent many hours behind the scenes to pull the event together. It was a real collaborative effort, and exciting to see everything come together on the night. We couldn’t have been more pleased.”
Gala Dinner
glitz
and glamour
37
A warm welcome from the Rector and Board Rector Christine Leighton and retiring Board Chair Garry Moore provided a warm welcome to guests at the Gala Dinner, with new Board Chair Bryan Pearson delivering the Toast to St Andrew’s College, and Nick Letham (2001) doing a great job as MC, recounting lots of hilarious tales from throughout the College’s history. Bridie Connell (former Head Girl 2007) said Grace. Garry said over 100 years St Andrew’s College has celebrated many significant occasions, 50th, 75th and 90th Jubilees, parent balls, ceilidhs, galas, acknowledgements of special people and hundreds of reunions bringing Old Collegians back together. Christine said at the College’s 21st birthday celebrations, its founder Reverend A T Thompson urged the 200 gathered to visualise the St Andrew’s of the future, which would include a Chapel.
“Seventy-nine years later, here we are with a beautiful place to worship. I think Reverend A T Thompson would have been pretty proud of you, our Old Collegians, supported by your parents, families and teachers who over the years have made the dreams of our founders a reality.” She said St Andrew’s was mindful of its responsibility as educators of young people today who will have such an influence on the world of tomorrow. “We are proud of their achievements, their humanity and their desire to make the world a better place. We rejoice in their talents, their energy and positive spirit.” As he led the Toast, new Board Chair Bryan Pearson asked those gathered to reflect on the College’s core values of Truth, Excellence and Faith. “These values are the foundation of our enduring success and future sustainability. They are ours and we all share responsibility for bringing these to life and nurturing the culture they define. Let us acknowledge every one of the 100-year-old St Andrew’s College family who together have honoured the vision of the founder and discovered, through years of toil and in both good and challenging times, what we have and are so very proud of today. The years have truly gathered fame to St Andrew’s.”
Sharing the honours. (left) Christine Leighton and Garry Moore delivering the key address at the Gala Dinner. (right) Bryan Pearson proposing the toast to St Andrew’s College.
highlight was ‘‘theMyspectacular Gala
Dinner. All of our table of the 1947s (70 Years On) stayed on well after our bedtime, our voices almost lost after constant chatter.
’’
GRAEME SIM (1951)
’’
JIM HUDSON (1953)
Good times galore Guests were wowed by the highly polished entertainment provided by the Pipe Band, Highland dancers, performers in the StAC Showcase, and Jim Hudson (1953) who delivered his spectacular Address to the Haggis at the dinner and at many other occasions throughout Centenary year. Guests then danced the night away to live music performed by Michael Murphy and Rebecca Wright. See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
39 StAC100
awesome and one can only be in awe at what has transpired from humble beginnings to today’s very positive environment, where pupils are so obviously given every opportunity to develop their potential. Well done StAC!
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
shown ‘‘byThethetalent pupils was
The College ‘‘ performers at the
dinner were simply stunning and world-class.
’’
MATTHEW COCKRAM (1980)
Encore! It seems fitting that the Centenary celebrations ended with a song and dance. Guests at the Gala Dinner enjoyed the StAC Showcase, a sneak peak of this year’s Senior production, Encore!, and were stunned by the talent of our young performers as they paid tribute to 100 years of wonderful theatre at StAC.
Encore! later enjoyed a sold-out run at the College, and was the last official event of Centenary year. Laurence Wiseman, who co-directed the show with Ginnie Thorner, says the StAC Showcase was an amazing
opportunity for the students to perform on a full sized stage in front of a large crowd of over 1500 people.
My Fair Lady, Girl Crazy, Shall we Dance), and ending with Fame and Greased Lightning.
“It was highly nerve wracking as most of the students were inexperienced performers, and we only had one chance to get it right. However the magic happened once they were on stage and the nerves disappeared. The vibe from the audience helped to inject some amazing energy into their performances. It blew me away.”
Alex Lye (2015), now studying at Unitech in Auckland, was the show’s MC, recreating his character of Officer Lockstock from the musical Urinetown (2015). His dry, witty commentary brilliantly wove a narrative around the songs.
The Showcase featured the opening and closing of Encore!, starting with a Jazz Medley (Wouldn’t it be Lovely, They Can’t Take That Away From Me, On the Street Where You Live, I Got Rhythm,
The other stars of the night were the band, which delivered an incredibly polished performance led by musical director Duncan Ferguson.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Hot Mikado, Anything Goes, Suspect, West Side Story, Blood Brothers, Urinetown, Fame and Grease. “When Ginnie, Duncan and I started putting the show together from
scratch around 18 months ago we had no idea how big the task would prove. With 19 big production numbers it was the most challenging show we’ve ever done, but has also been incredibly rewarding”, says Laurence.
41 StAC100
The sold-out Encore! show ran for a week at St Andrew’s in early May and featured songs from some of the much-loved musicals performed at the College throughout its history; Guys and Dolls, Cabaret, My Fair Lady,
Open Days Many Old Collegians enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with old teammates and see some of our current students in action at the Rowing and Trapshooting Open Days held over the Centenary Gala Weekend. A few Old Collegians even got back in the boat themselves at Kerrs Reach. After putting on a great display at the Rowing Open Day our U18 eight crew of Benjamin Taylor, Zackary Rumble, Thomas Russel, Mitchell White, Samuel Paterson, Oliver Bailey, Flynn Dijkstra, Hamish Veitch (all Year 13 apart from Oliver Bailey Year 12), and cox Tom Flavill (Year 11) went on to make history for St Andrew’s by winning the highly coveted Maadi Cup. A good crowd also enjoyed the sunshine up at Castle Hill, where the Alistair Sidey Mountain Lodge and facilities were open during the weekend.
Visitors enjoying the action at the Rowing Open Day at Kerrs Reach.
Moving Chapel Service As the Sunday of Centenary Gala Weekend dawned, many of our Old Collegians, students, staff and families gathered at the Centennial Chapel to enjoy a moving service delivered by Chaplain Paul Morrow. Various current students and staff led prayers, hymns, readings and musical items, and there was a beautiful performance of Then Sings My Soul by Margo Button and Bryan Botting. The service was followed by morning tea. See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
‘‘I was at St Andrew’s during the war
when the situation was very tight but we had the principles instilled in us which we live by today. However I would love to have the opportunities that are available to students now. During the school tour at the Gala Weekend we visited the wonderful Askin Pipe Band Room. Our band room was a small army hut, but we were still very enthusiastic band members. I visited the open day at Kerrs Reach and met some old rowers including the cox of an Old Boys eight I stroked in 1957. The equipment available to rowers now is excellent and the eights gave us a very impressive exhibition of their skills.’’
JOHN MUSGROVE (1948)
Crowd bowled over
Old Collegian All Stars, which included a couple of great New Zealand players, Chris Harris and Paul McEwan.
’’
GRAHAM DOWLING (1954)
“It was a huge honour for myself and the Dowling family to be involved in the cricket match, which was a wonderful 20/20 spectacle. It was great to see a very strong College First XI play so well against the Old Collegian All Stars, which included a couple of great New Zealand players, Chris Harris and Paul McEwan. The crowd enjoyed all the hitting, which started from the first ball of the match, which Paul McEwan swatted for six. It shows you how good he still is.” Graham scored his first ever century playing for the St Andrew’s Under 14s versus Christ’s College in 1951, and still has the bat he was given by the College to remember the innings. “The world is a different place now and cricket is a very different game, but I feel fortunate to have had the cricket career I did, which started here at St Andrew’s.” In an exciting and fitting coincidence, the College’s current Black Cap Henry Nicholls (2009) scored his maiden test century for New Zealand against South Africa on the eve of the Centenary celebrations.
43 StAC100
It was great to see a very strong ‘‘ College First XI play so well against the
One of St Andrew’s sporting greats, Graham Dowling (1954) a New Zealand Test player from 1961–1972 was on hand to officiate at the toss, and present special Centenary caps to the players.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
The First XI versus Old Collegians cricket match, organised by First XI coach Mike Johnston (1973) and fellow staff member and First XI manager, John Anderson, was played in great competitive spirit in near perfect conditions on the Sunday afternoon of Centenary Gala Weekend. A large crowd enjoyed a real nail-biter, which was won by the Old Collegians in the last over.
Concert
a stunning
final act A rousing rendition of the St Andrew’s College Song, sung in a packed Centennial Chapel, was the final act of Centenary Gala Weekend. It was also a perfect end to the Old Collegians’ Musical Concert, during which up to 70 Old Collegians and others with a close connection to the College, entertained a highly receptive audience of around 700 people.
was a matter of seeing who was in Christchurch or around the traps, and making sure we had appropriate musicians for appropriate parts.” Singers and musicians were also gathered for the Old Collegians’ Choir (conducted by Bryan Botting), and Old Collegians’ Orchestra (conducted by Mark Hodgkinson). Choosing the right repertoire for the groups was critical, as they were limited to just two rehearsals, says Michael. Nine outstanding soloists, many with international reputations, stunned the audience with their performances in the first half of the programme covering everything from classical, to jazz and Broadway.
Preparatory School teacher Jane Radford was a member of the organising committee, and says the concert was a wonderful celebration of music at St Andrew’s. “The idea behind the concert was to recognise some of our outstanding musicians and others who enjoyed music throughout their school life. It was a delight to see the joy as they gathered and met with others they hadn’t seen for ages. There were lots of warm hugs and greetings. ”
Towards the end of the concert, the audience was invited to stand and sing along to Jerusalem with the choir and orchestra. Then it was time for the St Andrew’s College Song, accompanied by Russell Kent (1959) on the organ, says Michael.
Michael Lawrence, a former Head of Music at St Andrew’s for 25 years and now a part time music teacher at the College was the compere at the concert, and was instrumental in bringing together the various musicians.
“It was very special having Russell to play, as he was a member of the chapel choir for the opening of the St Andrew’s Memorial Chapel in 1955. I would like to acknowledge everyone who contributed to making this event such a wonderful end to our Centenary celebrations.”
His first task was to put together the Old Collegians’ Jazz Band, which opened the show. “One of the biggest challenges was finding people. It
See the photos of the day at stac.school.nz
The beautiful floral displays in the Chapel during Centenary Gala Weekend were kindly donated by the Ladies Circle, who meet each month to socialise, listen to guest speakers and fundraise. Val Wells, a member of the group who has created flowers for both chapel services and prizegivings since 1975, said the women were delighted to supply the flowers. “We have contributed considerably to the Chapel over the years, and felt that providing the flowers was a wonderful way for us to support the Centenary.” She says the Ladies Circle is grateful to Alex Pascoe, who grew and supplied the beautiful blue gentians in the arrangements at no cost. “We tried very hard to pay Alex, who has no connection at all with St Andrew’s, but he insisted that all he wanted in return was a picture of the arrangements. It was very generous of him.”
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
45 StAC100
Flowers a labour of love
Old Cols return for Centenary Athletics Day A number of Old Collegians including several record holders returned to St Andrew’s on the special Centenary Secondary School Athletics Sports Day, to enjoy the competition and reminisce about old times.
High tea in the Chapel The St Andrew’s College Ladies Circle and members of the Development Team shared a special high tea in the Centennial Chapel on 31 March to mark the Centenary. The women were dressed in their finery and hats to recreate how a similar event might have been held in 1958, the year the Ladies Circle first started. A meeting was held first in the Chapel, followed by a delicious afternoon tea in the foyer.
Don Davison (1956) who still holds the Athletics Day 200m (then 220 yards) sprint record after an amazing 61 years was instrumental in bringing the Old Collegians together. He also put together an Old Collegians’ relay team, which ran in the day’s final relay event, won by the student council team. After the day’s exciting competition, guests enjoyed drinks and nibbles in the sports pavilion hosted by the Rector and Head of Co-curricular, Denley Jones.
A striking, contemporary sculpture called ‘The Cross He Never Knew’, created by Old Collegian, Angus Muir (2006) and generously donated by his family for Centenary year is an exciting addition to the campus landscape. The sculpture is located close to Strowan House and references the saltire flag, a highly recognisable emblem of the College and its Scottish heritage. Its name is a phrase from the St Andrew’s College Song.
Members of the Ladies Circle enjoyed a special High Tea in the Centennial Chapel.
‘Bring an Old Col Home’ winner Thomas Moore (2009) with his mother Julie Raateland at the Gala Dinner.
Stunning Centenary sculpture
The winner of our ‘Bring an Old Col Home’ competition, Thomas Moore (2009) says it was an incredible experience to win the prize. “It was the first time I had seen my friends and teachers since I left StAC eight years ago, and I hadn’t seen my family in a year, including my brother Luke who
Angus is based in Auckland where he is the creative director of award winning collaborative studio Angus Muir Design. His brothers Andrew (2009) and William (2016) also attended St Andrew’s College.
entered me in the draw as a birthday present. It will be a difficult gift to top and one I might not ever live up to!” Emirates and House of Travel Merivale provided generous sponsorship for the competition, with the prize to fly an Old Collegian home from anywhere in the world for the Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations. Thomas says the Gala Dinner was a major highlight and reminded him of why he enjoyed school so much. “It was a winning combination of performance, cuisine and great people.” After a whirlwind week of ‘non-stop catch-ups and laughs’, Thomas was back on the plane to London.
Timed to
The dedicated catering team, Scott Henwood, John Millard, Head Chef and Catering Manager Russell Gray, and Mark Platt (left) and the stunning baked wheatsheaf (right).
A spectacular baked wheatsheaf, 1300 pieces of individually decorated birthday cake, and a full cooked breakfast for 350 former boarders, were some of the unique tasks undertaken by the College’s highly experienced and multi-talented catering team during Centenary Gala Weekend. Head Chef and Catering Manager, Russell Gray says the seamless delivery of the delicious meals and catering was the result of careful planning and consultation with various organising committees over many months. “The trick to successful catering is to make it all seem effortless. ‘Mis en Plus’ is what we are all about in the kitchen, which is French for preparation in advance. Timing is critical and we are particularly grateful to the Development team and Boarders’ Breakfast committee who understood that every two minutes past the agreed serving time is a lifetime in terms of food perfection. They were bang on with their organisation for the event.” It was back in Term 4, 2016 that catering team chef Mark Platt (a former chef at The Curator’s House)
started to perfect the timing of the cooking of the dishes that had been selected for the Boarders’ Breakfast. Russell (who in the past has worked with a Michelin star chef in the UK, and alongside another current St Andrew’s chef, Scott Henwood at Noah’s Hotel back in its heyday) was onsite at 4.00am on the morning of the breakfast along with two of his sons to transform Gym 1 from the previous evening’s Cocktail Party. He says it was a ‘real pleasure’ to see Judy Reilly a long-standing member of the catering team, seated at the breakfast as a special guest of the boarders. Chef Scott Henwood, who was involved in all of the Centenary catering, took charge of the staff cocktail function for 300 people during Centenary Gala Weekend. College baker, John Millard baked the spectacular wheatsheaf that adorned the cheese tower created for the Old Collegians’ Concert. “John added a thistle to the wheatsheaf to give it a personal Centenary touch. I had collected the wooden base for the cheese tower from a tree that fell near the Strowan driveway in a storm two years ago”, says Russell. On Founders’ Day, every student in the Secondary and Preparatory Schools was given a piece of birthday cake with chocolate icing and an individual
here to cater for the boarders, but with so many events at St Andrew’s these days, this is only a part of our role.
’’
RUSSELL GRAY HEAD CHEF AND CATERING MANAGER
Centenary garnish. “This took us longer to finish than we anticipated. Certainly a lot longer than the cakes took to devour.” After the Centenary Gala Weekend it was quickly back to business-asusual for the team, which catered for 400 people in the Chapel the following Tuesday. “Some people think we’re only here to cater for the boarders, but with so many events at St Andrew’s these days, this is only a part of our role.” As far as the Centenary was concerned, Russell has great admiration for his chefs, baker, kitchen assistants and other support staff who helped the College to achieve its wonderful Centenary celebrations. “I am lucky to work with such a dedicated and professional bunch of people, including the support of my wife, who adds the little finishing touches that make a difference.”
47 StAC100
Some people ‘‘ think we’re only
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
perfection
We aimed to ‘‘ create a readable,
high interest book, which people could dip in and out of with ease.
’’
PIP DINSENBACHER PROJECT MANAGER AND WRITER
managing and writing the beautiful coffee table book The Spirit of St Andrew’s, with input from contributing writers, Geoff Rice and Chris Moore.
Dynamic duo. Communications team Head Designer Craig Morgan, and Preparatory School Art teacher Pip Dinsenbacher spent hundreds of hours bringing special Centenary projects to life including the centenary book, The Spirit of St Andrew’s.
Bringing
history to life
Meeting the grandson of one of her ‘heroes’, the founder of St Andrew’s College, Reverend A T Thompson, was a highlight of the Centenary celebrations for Pip Dinsenbacher. “We had a wonderful conversation while looking at the significant artefacts relevant to Rev. Thompson now preserved in the memorial wall and entrance of the Centennial Chapel.
John Thompson and his wife, Jan then walked down the Poet’s Walk from the gates and read the words of his grandfather’s poem Ave atque vale.” Pip Dinsenbacher, the Preparatory School Art teacher since 2000 is fascinated with the College’s history, and along with Craig Morgan, Head Designer in the Communications team, and museum curator Alexandra Callaghan, has been involved with several significant Centenary year projects – creating the Centenary Timeline, the Sports Wall and project
One of the sections of the book of which Pip is most proud, recounts the story of the class of 1941, which included many Christchurch luminaries such as cardiologist Sir David Hay who led New Zealand’s anti-tobacco campaign; his twin brother Sir Hamish Hay, a Christchurch mayor for 15 years; and internationally acclaimed concert pianist Maurice Till. “There were many other remarkable boys in this group, who arrived at St Andrew’s during a time of deprivation, when the Rector himself went to war, and the school was manned by older or retired teachers due to staff leaving for military service. Hamish Hay was the College bugler, who had to play The Last Post each time news came of the death of an Old Collegian or staff member serving in the war.” Pip says this sort of human element was very important to the book. “We aimed to create a readable, high interest book, which people could dip in and out of with ease.”
“Craig and I spent many long nights at the College compiling and proofing the book. He created a definitive template for the layout, working with the publishing house Caxton meticulously proofing and refining the final design right up to the deadline.” Pip is grateful to Caxton and binders S I McHarg, family companies, with longstanding connections to the College, which both worked tirelessly to get the book published on schedule, even managing to deliver an advance copy in time for inclusion in the Centenary Time Capsule. Pip says all the effort and hard work to complete the project before the Centenary Gala Weekend celebrations was well worth it. “I’m incredibly proud of what we achieved and we’ve had some wonderful and humbling feedback.” Purchase your copy of The Spirit of St Andrew’s at stac100.co.nz
Christchurch luminaries including twins Sir Hamish Hay (standing back left) and Sir David Hay (seated second from right), along with concert pianist Maurice Till (seated second from left) were prefects at St Andrew’s in 1944. The glimpse into their schooling at the College during the war years is one of Pip’s favourite parts of the book.
Ties, lapel pins, china mugs, wine, and of course some excellent Scottish whisky were among the range of exciting merchandise created for Centenary year. Even if you didn’t attend Centenary Gala Weekend, these items are a great memento of a wonderful year of 100th birthday celebrations at St Andrew’s College. A range of selected merchandise is still available to purchase. Visit StAC100.co.nz to place your order.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Craig Morgan made a massive contribution to the book’s production, along with Rector Christine Leighton who provided valuable supportive editorial oversight throughout.
Centenary merchandise
As neat as a new pin A commemorative lapel pin with an elegant thistle design has been a popular memento of the Centenary celebrations and had its genesis in a Year 12 Business Studies class. In 2016, a group called C.L.P. comprising Angus Syme, Oscar Wilson, Nicholas Ross, Louis McFadden and Michael Carston, were tasked with creating a community focused business. “We decided to focus on our own community at St Andrew’s and create a piece of Centenary commemorative merchandise. After speaking with Mrs Leighton we decided on a lapel pin, as it was durable, unisex, and would appeal to everyone from students and staff to Old Collegians,” says Nicholas Ross.
“It has been fantastic to see so many people of all ages wearing the pin, which was the original aim when we designed it,” says Angus Syme. The students’ teacher Steve Aldhamland says they have produced a high quality product that provides wearers with a continued sense of connection to St Andrew’s College. The students are donating all profits from the lapel pin towards an item for the Centennial Chapel that is yet to be decided upon.
The Centenary lapel pin was designed by the students, with the help of Communications designer, Craig Morgan, and was made by metal artisans, TRIBE Design in Wellington. It was promoted through various College media, sold well at the Centenary Gala celebrations, and is still available for purchase on the stac100 website.
Teacher Steve Aldhamland with Year 13 students Nicholas Ross, Louis McFadden and Angus Syme, members of the group C.L.P. that created the Centenary lapel pin. Absent is Oscar Wilson and Michael Carston.
49 StAC100
Pip says meeting Gordon Ogilvie, author of the College history, High Flies the Cross was another highlight of the Centenary celebrations as she had ‘lived and breathed’ his book for a long time.
Left: (from left) Scott Morrison (Year 11) Media staff member David Jensen (1997), Alicia Musgrave (Burnside High School) and Whitebait Media Technical and Studio Manager Tim Murdoch (2004) running the live broadcast during the Founders’ Day Assembly. Right: (from left) Ben Smith (Year 12), Oliver Griffith Jones (Year 12), Monica Owens (Year 10), Sophie Bonis (Year 10) and Erica Marcoschi (Year 11) ready to capture the highlights of Centenary Gala Weekend.
Media and film students at St Andrew’s played a key role in capturing all the exciting activities and events throughout Centenary year and enjoyed the opportunity to use and extend their skills. “I’m incredibly proud of the students. They understood there was no room for error, and we only had one chance to get things right,” says Simon Williams, who leads the department. The students, who are mainly from Years 9 to 12, covered every major event throughout the year, with a highlight being their involvement in three outside broadcasts, for the Centennial Chapel Dedication, Founders’ Day Assembly and Gala Dinner. “These were real pressure points, with all sorts of things having to be
co-ordinated to make them work. At the Chapel Dedication we were humbled by the incredible generosity of Auckland firm, Outside Broadcasting (OSB) who lent us state-of-the-art equipment, including a $15 million broadcast truck, as well as manpower virtually for free.” Three of the OSB team were Old Collegians. Several other former media students of the College also gave up their time to mentor the students on the day. “It was a special experience for the students to work with these professionals, who effectively handed over the broadcast to them, and guided them through the process.” David Jensen (1997) directed all three outside broadcasts, and says the pressure was ‘pretty intense’ leading up to the events. “The students coped brilliantly. The training they get at St Andrew’s
Capturing moments
helped enormously. It was a matter of getting all the ducks in a row.” The Founders’ Day Assembly was captured with multiple cameras in Gym 1, broadcast live on to large screens in Gym 2 where the majority of students were watching. It was also screened in the Preparatory School. Simon says a huge amount of work went on behind the scenes for the Gala Dinner, where live action on the stage was seen on two large screens. “We were lucky to have Tim Murdoch (2004) manage these two events over the Gala Weekend for us. He is a technical genius and the current Technical Manager at Whitebait TV.” St Andrew’s students have covered other highlights of the Centenary with field cameras and drones, and run their studio based show StAC’s 100 on the YouTube channel, adding weekly content including interviews with a range of staff and students. “It is amazing to think the students achieved all this alongside their busy school lives. They can be very proud of their efforts in capturing this very important period in St Andrew’s history. Their work will only increase in importance as the decades go on.”
Visit StAC’s 100 on YouTube
Centenary film evokes special StAC spirit
‘‘Being part of the Centenary events
was a great experience. I was given the opportunity to use the skills I’ve learnt over my time at StAC in the TV studio and the theatre. It was great to see months of work come together, and get to work with and learn from the professionals.’’
BEN SMITH (YEAR 12)
‘‘Being part of the ‘behind the scenes’
media crew for the St Andrew’s Centenary was one of the coolest experiences imaginable. Working with a professional live broadcasting crew allowed me to develop new management techniques necessary for this sort of work. Being part of the camera and edit crew was also a unique and awesome experience. I love working with the Media Department at StAC. Technical and general life skills are around every corner.’’
BENOIT WYNN-WILLIAMS (YEAR 12)
Centenary year provided an exciting opportunity for Media and Film students to utilise their skills across a range of broadcast mediums.
“My idea was to tap into my own memories as a student and focus on the enduring spirit of the College that has lingered throughout its history, and continues to shape students into good human beings as they step into the world.” He started the 20-minute film with a powerful shot of a lone piper playing the St Andrew’s College School Song, and finished with the full Pipe Band on the windswept Port Hills, symbolising how students enter the College alone, and leave as part of a ‘band of brothers’. In between are cleverly
Rick says people like Mike Kelland who filmed and edited The Spirit of St Andrew’s; along with Simon Williams and museum curator Alexandra Callaghan from the College, were integral to the film’s production and post-production process. “As an archivist Alex was able to source things we needed, and did a great job of production co-ordinating. We couldn’t have done it without her.” To commemorate the first century of history at St Andrew’s in film was a responsibility Rick didn’t take lightly. “I feel the film is significant and will be around for decades to come. There was only one chance to do it, that’s why so much extra effort went into making sure it was spot on.”
Magical landscape. Striking images of the Pipe Band performing on the Port Hills are a feature of the film.
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
Old Collegian, Rick Harvie (1989) of Belmont Productions, who was chosen to create the film following a competitive tender process, says he knew it would be an impossible task to cover every highlight, student, teacher and event over the 100-year history of St Andrew’s.
interwoven short interviews, familiar scenes and music carefully chosen to stir the collective memory of all who have passed through its gates.
51 StAC100
Centenary film, The Spirit of St Andrew’s beautifully captures the special nature and spirit of the College, and evoked an emotional response from many who viewed it over Centenary Gala Weekend.
The generous support of Centenary Partners, Caxton and Konica Minolta was instrumental in the delivery of a wonderful year of Centenary celebrations, says Clare Wilkinson.
“Back in 2016 our Centenary Partners committed to providing financial support which allowed us to plan some fantastic events with extra special elements that wouldn’t have been otherwise possible. We continue to enjoy highly valued partnerships with both companies and are incredibly grateful for their support during
Thank you to Centenary Partners
Bridget Batchelor, managing director of CAXTON Print & Design (back left), with her husband Andrew Batchelor (front left), enjoyed the Centenary Gala Dinner with St Andrew’s College staff members and their partners.
Caxton There are some times in life which make you say “that was really good” or “that was worth doing”. The Centenary was one of those times. Congratulations to all the organising people at St Andrew’s – including the Rector, Christine Leighton and Director of Development, Clare Wilkinson. You put on a great show. You honoured the past, but you also gave everyone who attended a really memorable celebration. Big highlights were the Gala Dinner – setting a record of more than 1500 guests, and the amazing Pipe Band and performing arts programmes. From a business sponsorship point of view – St Andrew’s College certainly delivered. At Caxton, we committed to be a major Centenary Sponsorship Partner, early on. For a family-owned printing business, that was a big deal. But when asked, we agreed without hesitation. St Andrew’s has values and drive and organisation and people we identify with. Our association goes back for three Old Collegians generations,
Centenary year. It was great to see representatives of both firms at numerous events including Old Col Bruce Bascand (1967), owner and director of Caxton.”
Bruce Bascand (1967) owner and director of Caxton.
(Back row) Julian Bowden, Graeme Stevenson (current parent), Lester Craythorne (Konica Minolta) and David Bates (Konica Minolta) pictured with (front row) Clare Wilkinson, Ally Stevenson (current parent), Louise Craythorne and Rachel Bates.
and many years as the College’s printer. We’re particularly proud of The Spirit of St Andrew’s book, which we printed this year. Our Caxton brand was on all the marketing collateral. You can never gauge what business comes directly from that exposure, but we were delighted to see the Caxton logo everywhere, and to be a part of such a positive event.
BRIDGET BATCHELOR MANAGING DIRECTOR CAXTON PRINT & DESIGN
Konica Minolta We were excited to become a Centenary Partner for this significant celebration at St Andrew’s College. Konica Minolta has had the pleasure of doing business with StAC for
15-plus years, with some of our key staff providing solutions to the College for this entire time. We very much value the relationship, which we consider to be a mutually beneficial one. The Centenary year celebrations were incredibly well run, and our involvement as a major sponsor helped us to gain a better understanding of StAC’s very early days. We were impressed at the pride shown by all – young and old in their school. The Gala Dinner was a definite highlight, with its impressive formal dinner, spectacular performances throughout the evening and a very entertaining Address to the Haggis. Overall the Centenary celebrations at St Andrew’s are something we were pleased to be associated with.
LESTER CRAYTHORNE GENERAL MANAGER (SOUTH ISLAND) KONICA MINOLTA
We’d like to offer special thanks once again to ‘‘ our Centenary Partners Caxton and Konica Minolta,
along with the many sponsors who supported individual events during Centenary year and the publications we produced for the celebrations. We couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you!
’’
1917–2017 Commemorative Issue
CLARE WILKINSON DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
StAC100
53
, Q Y H V W P H Q W $ G Y L F H
CMYK C20 M70 Y100 K25 / C5 M70 Y100 K8
Step into our future Our fundraising campaign
Walking together ‒ one generation after another ‒ we make St Andrew’s College the school it is. A history of success. A future of opportunities. See stac.school.nz for more information about our fundraising campaign for the new Chapel, Sports and Cultural Centre and the St Andrew’s College Foundation.
Across the generations. Jackson Stewart (Year 10) and Old Collegian John Morrison (1958) took part in Pipe Band performances at the Centenary FĂŞte.
347 Papanui Road, Christchurch 8052, New Zealand P +64 3 940 2000 F +64 3 940 2060 W stac.school.nz